What Is Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse is a growing problem in this country. Part of the reason for this is that the population of seniors is higher than ever before. The baby boomer generation is rapidly entering retirement age, and medical advances are allowing people to live longer. One often thinks of elder abuse as occurring primarily in nursing facilities, but the elderly are abused at home, too. If you believe your loved one is being abused it is very important that you report that matter to the police and then consult a College Station elder law attorney. So, what is elder abuse?

Elder Abuse Defined

Elder abuse is the act of causing harm to a senior person either intentionally or through neglect. Your elder law attorney will tell you that abuse of seniors is against the law, and a person who is convicted may receive a felony on their record.

Types of Elder Abuse

Elder abuse manifests itself in a number of different ways. It should be noted that not all situations in which an elderly person suffers harm results from abuse. You should speak with your elder law attorney, though, if you are concerned about the possibility that your loved one has suffered one of the following:

• Physical abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Financial abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Abandonment

If your loved one lives elsewhere, such as in a nursing home, you may not be witness to any actual abuse, but look for certain signs:

• Fear
• Crying, agitation, withdrawal
• Physical marks
• Dirty living quarters
• Unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts

Work with an Elder Law Attorney if You Have Concerns

A strong and knowledgeable College Station elder law attorney can discuss your concerns about a loved one being abused, and direct you on how to move forward with a remedy. Call Peterson Law Group today at 979-703-7014.